Programme Lead, Climate Intelligence

Job details
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Job type

Full-time
 
Location
Auckland City, Auckland
 
Full job description
Mo te tunga | About the role

Defence Science & Technology (DST) is a business unit of the NZDF, established to deliver applied research, exploratory development, and policy studies on science, technology and related areas with application to military technology, force development and operations.

The purpose of this role is to lead and manage the Climate Intelligence team and its associated Climate Intelligence research programme. The Climate Intelligence team provides timely and relevant defence science and technology advice, authoritative recommendations, trends, risks and implications to key NZDF and MoD stakeholders.

This Climate Intelligence research programme currently has the following focus areas:

Meteorological and oceanographic climate intelligence for current and future physical operating environments, including supporting NZDF operations and acquisition projects.
Power and energy resilience for deployed forces.
The role will continue to further define, develop and direct the research programme, includes leading the planning, delivery and reporting of the programme, engaging stakeholders, and managing collaboration with domestic and international partners.

You will need to balance the role requirements of leading a team, leading a research programme and delivering individual science outcomes. This balance will vary depending on the individual responsibilities and team size.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience

We are seeking a motivated and capable senior leader who comes with a track record of scientific accomplishments.

There are some key responsibilities for this role that must be met to ensure your success in this role.

Must be a SME either in Meteorological and oceanographic climate intelligence or Power and Energy resilience.
10+ years' experience is backed up with a relevant master's degree, or university honours degree with strong relevant research experience equivalent to master's level will be considered.
Exceptional writing skills, including the writing high level ministerial briefing materials.
Be able to travel domestically and internationally without any issues or concerns.
This role requires the ability to work away from home for extended periods completing field work and time at sea. These aspects are essential to the position. If you are shortlisted for this role, you will be expected to discuss how you plan to manage and accommodate these requirements.

Nou te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning - safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all - irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics - NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 8 September 2025.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.
NZDF Employees/Members - please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors - please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves - please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.
If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.